Derek Johnson, a 6-foot-5 inside forward from Burlington County Institute of Technology in Westampton, New Jersey, is a player to monitor this month.
Johnson, who impressed at a St. Joseph's division one basketball camp, is likely to compete for the 16 and under Team NJABC AAU program.
"He's improving each tournament," said Team NJABC's Matt Pauls.
A 2011 prospect, Derek has two more full high school seasons before making the jump to the college level. It's early in his recruiting process so we'll keep you updated on how he performs over the next few months.
PREVIOUS EVALUATION OF DEREK JOHNSON'S INDIVIDUAL GAME:
Derek has some perimeter range to 15 feet. Johnson, though, make no mistake about it, is more productive and effective close to the rim.
Derek can scoop up loose balls off the glass. He wisely utilizes his frame to shield his defenders to also make an impact on the offensive glass.
Built like a football tight end, the areas Derek is currently working on are his ballhandling and being more consistent with his outside shot.
WHAT TEAM NJABC'S MATT PAULS THINKS OF DEREK JOHNSON'S INDIVIDUAL GAME:
He has huge upside and works very hard. Most importantly, he is a great young man and teammate. He is new to the grassroots scene, but is on track to having many college options.
EARLY COLLEGE INTEREST:
Fairfield, Stony Brook, Monmouth, St. Peter's, St. Francis of New York.